Des Plaines River Trail Races
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Des Plaines River Trail Races
The Des Plaines River Trail Races are held in Lake County, Illinois, with start and finish at Half Day Forest Preserve. The 2026 event is the 16th edition and offers multiple distances:
- 50 Mile
- 50K
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
The trail is a flat, wide crushed gravel surface, generally free of roots and rocks. Runners follow the northern segment of the Des Plaines River Trail on mostly out and back courses. Major road crossings use bridges or viaducts; there are only a few minor road crossings depending on distance. Parts of the course can run through water after heavy rain and an alternate course will be used if flooding occurs.
The Marathon is a Boston Qualifier. The event is cupless so participants must bring a small cup, hydration pack, or water bottle for aid stations. Aid stations by distance: Half Marathon: 2 manned and 2 unmanned Marathon: 6 manned and 2 unmanned 50K: 9 manned and 2 unmanned 50 Mile: 10 manned and 2 unmanned
Finishers receive medals; awards include belt buckles, plaques, and age group prizes. T-shirt availability depends on registration timing, with a deadline for guaranteed shirts. Registration opens January 1 at 10 am Central and closes October 5 at 11:59 pm Central. No refunds; transfers allowed through September 20. Deferrals accepted through September 15 with a 20% fee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
